WalletHub recently analyzed and ranked the best and worst states to have a baby. The list was comprised based off of financial considerations, healthcare, and baby-friendly policies.
The highest ranked state was Vermont, and the lowest was Alabama.
Surprisingly, cost varies significantly by state. North Dakota seemed to be the most affordable place to give birth, while Maryland has a the cheapest C-section rates. However, Florida and Nevada were the most expensive for vaginal deliveries, but Rhode Island charges the most for a Cesarean. (Rhode Island also has the highest infant care costs.)
A Child’s health is important to us all. Alaska ranks #1 for lowest infant mortality rate. Unfortunately, Ohio ranks top of the list in infant death rates by state (3 times higher than the lowest state). Once we have moved on from these sobering facts, we need to find a good pediatrician for the child. The District of Colombia is not lacking in doctors, but the cost of a pediatrician in the area is four times higher than Mississippi.
Here is the full ranked list:
1. Vermont
2. Maine
3. Oregon
4. Connecticut
5. New Hampshire
6. Wyoming
7. Iowa
8. Massachusetts
9. Alaska
10. Utah
11. Hawaii
12. Idaho
13. Minnesota
14. Kentucky
15. North Dakota
16. Nebraska
17. Virginia
18. Colorado
19. Ohio
20. South Dakota
21. Washington
22. Montana
23. Indiana
24. Texas
25. Missouri
26. Maryland
27. Kansas
28. Wisconsin
29. Michigan
30. Arizona
31. District of Columbia
32. New Jersey
33. California
34. Arkansas
35. Delaware
36. Tennessee
37. Florida
38. New Mexico
39. Oklahoma
40. Illinois
41. Rhode Island
42. North Carolina
43. West Virginia
44. Georgia
45. New York
46. Nevada
47. Pennsylvania
48. South Carolina
49. Mississippi
50. Louisiana
51. Alabama
